Be Part of Building a New Republic

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has said Ireland must add its voice to the backlash against the EU’s strict austerity rules at this week’s EU Council.

Deputy Doherty said:

“Enda Kenny must use this week’s EU Council meeting to add Ireland’s voice to the calls for a move away from the strict implementation of austerity rules. It is clear that there is momentum gathering to look again at the austerity rules which have proved so ineffective and damaging to the prospects of a social Europe. Sinn Féin’s opposition to the Austerity treaty has been proven to be well placed.

"I welcome the intervention from the Italian Prime Minister and French President calling for a relaxation of the budget rules. As we approach October’s budget the EU Commission is insisting on a €2bn cut in this State to keep on-side with these rules. It is blatantly in Ireland’s interests that these rules are relaxed. Ireland and Europe cannot afford more years of sticking to rigid and severe austerity demands.

"An Taoiseach must take a stance with those in favour of fairer, less harsh rules and against those who are wedded to strict implementation of austerity rules. This is an important debate and the government must side with the movement against the harsh binding austerity rules. If An Taoiseach is not willing to lead he can now at least follow.”